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House adopts 5‑minute per‑speaker debate limit for non‑time‑certain bills
Summary
The House adopted a rules change limiting debate to five minutes per speaker on non‑time‑certain bills after a substitute motion; proponents cited efficiency while opponents warned it could shortchange complex measures.
The Utah House voted to change floor debate limits, adopting a substitute motion that limits debate to five minutes per person on bills placed on the green counter (non‑time‑certain items).
Representative James Stevens summarized the substitute motion, telling members that if the substitute failed the default would have been five minutes per bill; the adopted substitute instead limits each speaker to five minutes. Stevens argued the change would help the body move efficiently through a large number of priority bills. The rules committee and multiple members emphasized that time‑certain bills would not be affected.
During debate, several members warned that substantial bills — including lengthy or sensitive measures — may require more time. Representative Atkinson urged caution, citing pending complex legislation and saying five minutes may be insufficient for weighty matters. Supporters replied that extensions can be granted by motion as needed. The chair ruled the substitute motion carries following a voice vote.
The change applies to routine third‑reading calendar bills designated by the rules committee and is intended to expedite floor business ahead of the session’s deadline.
